Rum in The Bahamas
Like most Caribbean island nations, rum is deeply embedded in the history and culture of The Bahamas. It’s been distilled from sugar cane since the 17th century and, thanks to Nassau Paradise Island’s proximity to Florida, rum-runners made a handsome profit ferrying Bahamian rum to the United States during prohibition.
Learn more about the history of rum in The Bahamas.
The Buena Vista Estate
Even the location of John Watling’s Distillery is steeped in history. In fact, February 10,, 2019 was The Buena Vista Estate’s 230th anniversary.
The stunning estate that is now home to John Watling’s Distillery dates back to 1789 when the Royal Governor of The Bahamas granted the land to the Honorable John Brown, Esquire as thanks for his loyal service and dedication to Nassau and The Bahamas. The center building was renovated and hosted the House of Assembly and Governor’s Council for close to a decade.
19th Century
In 1801, the land surrounding The Buena Vista Estate was divided into lots that would eventually be sold to freed slaves who populated the area, which became known as Delancy Town. It’s unclear who exactly owned and inhabited the estate during this period but by 1851 it was in the hands of Reverend William Woodcock. Members of the church would run the property until later in the century when it would be purchased by various prominent members of state including Sir Charles George Wadpole, (Chief Justice of The Bahamas) William Hart-Bennett, (Colonial Secretary) and Sir Joseph Brown (Member of the House of Assembly).